Reporter-News Archives Wednesday, July 30, 1997 Mission Merkel takes gospel to backyard By JOHN STARBUCK / Abilene Reporter-News MERKEL - Sacrificing a paycheck, spending three nights away from home and working outside in 90-plus degree heat might not sound like fun. But to the 25 youngsters and six adults participating this week in Mission Merkel, sponsored by First Baptist Church, it doesn't matter because they see it as serving the Lord - right in their own backyard. "Starting here is what Jesus instructed us to do," said Jason Kraft, church youth director. "He instructed his disciples to start at home and minister to the people there first, and we wanted to do that." The group, which is staying in the church's Family Life Center, is hosting backyard Bible clubs at the two city parks, Brickhaven Apartments and South 5th and Orange. They also are engaging in various service projects, including mowing, weed eating, painting and cleaning houses for elderly residents. The four-day mission ends today. "Basically what we're trying to do is just conduct it like we would if we were going on a trip to Colorado, New Mexico, somewhere like that," said church pastor, the Rev. Jimmy Griffith. "A lot of (the kids) are giving up a whole week's paycheck to come and do work for God," said youth intern Ryan Holmes. "Merkel's not a rough city, but its people need Jesus, and we're showing Jesus through us." Eighth-grader Gabe Burt is hoping that this project will be a good followup to a youth camp he recently attended. "Some people think this is a town where nobody cares, but we're trying to change that," he said. For Kayla Wells, helping the church is an opportunity to take a break from babysitting her brother. "I'm really excited, and I just want to help a lot of people," said Wells, an eighth-grader. "I hope we make a difference." Kraft believes the mission will leave a big impression on everyone involved. "If you go off to a far-away place, you can probably do some good work and have some good memories," said Kraft. "But if you do something at home, these girls and these guys will see results for years down the road." Send a Letter to the Editor about This Story | Start or Join A Discussion about This Story Send the URL (Address) of This Story to A Friend: Enter their email address below: texnews.com Reporter OnLine Local Sports Texas Sports Copyright ©1997, Abilene Reporter-News / Texnews / E.W. Scripps Publications